Introduction to Climbing Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano in Tanzania that stands at an impressive 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) and is the tallest peak in Africa. The mountain is considered one of the most iconic and magnificently accessible mountains in the world since it only requires basic mountaineering equipment to summit. Climbing Kilimanjaro is an incredible experience, but the question is, is it difficult?
Degrees of Difficulty on Kilimanjaro
The difficulty of climbing Kilimanjaro depends on what type of route you choose. The Marangu route, also known as the “Coca-Cola” route is considered the easiest route as it is well-maintained and is considered a ‘hike’ rather than a climb, but it still requires plenty of determination to summit. The most popular and safest route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is Machame. This route takes 6-7 days and has a success rate of 85%, but requires a reasonable level of fitness due to its steep ascend. Another route is the Upper 100 which involves an extremely steep climb regardless of fitness and experience as it is a technical climb.
Factors That Affect the Difficulty of Climbing Kilimanjaro
The difficulty of climbing Kilimanjaro also depends on other factors. Altitude sickness is the biggest factor that can cause difficulty during the climb. Altitude sickness is caused by the lower levels of oxygen at a high altitude and is something that nobody can predict. Another factor is the weather, since the temperature on Kilimanjaro can drop as low as -10°C, and hikers must be prepared to deal with extreme conditions. Finally, the physical fitness of the individual is important since the more physically fit you are, the easier the climb.
Expert Advice on Climbing Kilimanjaro
According to professional mountain guide Simon Mtuy, “the success rate for climbing Kilimanjaro depends a great deal on the route and the experience of the climbers.” He goes on to say that, “the Marangu route is the easiest and most popular route for climbers who have some basic mountaineering experience. The Machame route is safer due to its longer duration, but it’s also steeper and requires a higher level of fitness. The Upper 100 is technically difficult and requires experienced guides and equipment”.
Preparation to Climb Kilimanjaro
It is important to prepare properly before attempting to climb Kilimanjaro. It is essential to do some physical training prior to the climb to build up the endurance. It is also important to purchase the right gear, such as proper hiking boots, warm clothing, sleeping bags and a sleeping pad to help you stay warm during the cold nights. It is also important to drink plenty of water and add electrolytes to stay hydrated.
Overview of Climbing Kilimanjaro
In conclusion, climbing Kilimanjaro is an incredible experience, but it requires a reasonable level of physical fitness and the right gear. The difficulty of the climb depends on the route selected and the experience and fitness of the individual. It is important to be prepared for the undertaking and to be aware of the risks associated with altitude sickness. With the proper preparation and determination, it is still possible for anyone to climb Kilimanjaro.
Hiring an Experienced Guide for Kilimanjaro
When climbing Kilimanjaro, it is important to hire the right guide. An experienced guide will know the routes and the conditions, and will be able to respond to any unexpected situations. Furthermore, they can help climbers acclimatise properly to the altitude, which is essential to ensure a safe ascent. It is also important to ensure that the guide is reliable and is familiar with the terrain.
Choosing The Right Clothing and Equipment
The right clothing and equipment is essential when climbing Kilimanjaro. Hikers should wear several layers of clothing that can be easily adjusted when needed. Furthermore, it is important to wear waterproof clothing and shoes that fit securely and have a good grip. A good quality sleeping bag is also essential to keep the climber warm in temperatures as low as -10°C.
Safety Advice for Climbing Kilimanjaro
It is important to remain safe at all times while climbing the mountain. It is essential to drink plenty of water and to keep hydrated in order to prevent altitude sickness. It is also important to take all safety measures such as wearing a harness, helmet, and any other protective gear that may be necessary depending on the route. All hikers should also have a basic hiking medical kit that contains necessary items such as a headlamp, water purifier, first aid kit, an emergency beacon, and any other items that may be necessary.
Dealing With Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness can be a serious problem on Kilimanjaro and it is important to be aware of the signs such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. It is important to take regular stops on the ascent in order to give the body time to acclimatise to the altitude. Furthermore, it is essential to keep hydrated and to drink plenty of water. If signs of altitude sickness do occur, the climber should stop and descend a few hundred meters until they are feeling better.
